City of St. Louis begins Workhouse demolition, opening doors to future site plans

Demolition has commenced on St. Louis' Medium Security Institution, commonly known as the Workhouse, marking a pivotal step in the city's criminal justice reform efforts. The facility, operational since 1966, had been criticized due to substandard conditions and allegations of human rights violations. 

Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, who prioritized the closure of the Workhouse upon taking office in 2021, emphasized the significance of this development. The facility ceased operations in June 2021, with detainees transferred to the St. Louis City Justice Center. 

In September 2024, the city announced plans for the demolition, initially slated for December 16, 2024. However, environmental assessments revealed the presence of lead and asbestos, necessitating remediation and delaying the process. 

The demolition contract, valued at approximately $2.24 million, is funded through the city's building repair budget. 

Concurrently, the city is seeking community input for a memorial at the site to acknowledge those affected by the facility's history. Submissions for the memorial are being accepted until May 13, 2025. 

Looking ahead, the city is evaluating proposals for the site's redevelopment. Preliminary plans include constructing an animal shelter, conducting further environmental evaluations, and potentially relocating aspects of the city's tow lot to the area. These initiatives align with the city's commitment to repurposing the site to benefit the community and address past shortcomings.

The demolition of the Workhouse signifies a transformative period for St. Louis, reflecting a broader commitment to enhancing the criminal justice system and ensuring that past challenges are addressed constructively.

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Header image: The Workhouse, a medium security jailhouse, is being demolished and prepped for redevelopment. Photo credit: Spectrum News | Elizabeth Barmeier

Chesterfield set for transformation as City Council establishes special Business District

The Chesterfield City Council has sanctioned the Downtown Chesterfield Special Business District (SBD), implementing a phased tax plan to fund public infrastructure maintenance within the development area. This district, excluding the Dillard's property, is set to feature over 2,000 residential units, a 300-room hotel, and more than 3 million SF of commercial space, including offices, retail outlets, and restaurants.

An additional tax of up to $0.85 per $100 of assessed property value will be levied within the SBD to support these developments. This tax will apply solely to land assessments until the end of fiscal year 2029, ensuring that existing property owners are not disproportionately taxed during the redevelopment phase. By fiscal year 2030, as phase one concludes, the tax will extend to include property improvements, aligning contributions with the enhanced infrastructure and services.

The SBD's revenue will fund services such as street maintenance, lighting, bike paths, public parking facilities, pedestrian walkways, landscaped medians with irrigation, security measures, and administrative oversight. This approach ensures that property owners within the development contribute equitably to the upkeep of these public amenities.

Above: A rendering of a pedestrian path through the Downtown Chesterfield Special Business District lined with retail shops, restaurants ,and office space. Image courtesy of the Staenberg Group | Credit: Nelsen Partners

The City Council's decision authorizes an election within the district to approve the proposed tax. Ballots will be distributed by March 4, and the election is scheduled for April 15. Additionally, a seven-member advisory board will be appointed to provide recommendations on the district's operations.

Demolition of the existing Chesterfield Mall commenced in October 2024, marking the beginning of this extensive redevelopment project. Core infrastructure construction is slated to start in late 2025, with vertical development anticipated over the following decade. The initial phase aims to establish a vibrant urban center, introducing a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to the area.

This strategic development is poised to transform Chesterfield, fostering economic growth and enhancing community amenities through thoughtful planning and investment.

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Header Image: A rendering of the proposed Downtown Chesterfield Special Business District mixed-use project that includes multifamily units alongside offices, restaurants, and retail establishments. Image courtesy of the Staenberg Group | Credit: Nelsen Partners

St. Louis advances affordable housing with Clinton-Peabody redevelopment initiative

The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) has approved nearly $6.5 million in combined state and federal tax credits and funding to launch the redevelopment of the historic Clinton-Peabody public housing complex in St. Louis. This critical financial support includes $3.5 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), Missouri Affordable Housing Assistance Program tax credits, and $3 million in federal funds. Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH), a Chicago-based nonprofit developer specializing in affordable housing, is leading the initiative.

Constructed in 1942, Clinton-Peabody has long served as a cornerstone of public housing in St. Louis but now requires extensive upgrades to address structural and safety issues. The redevelopment aims to reimagine the complex as a mixed-income community, combining modern housing with comprehensive resident services. Collaborative planning efforts have included input from the St. Louis Housing Authority, Clinton-Peabody residents, and the Tenant Advisory Board.

The first phase of the redevelopment will deliver 89 newly constructed multi-family apartments, offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom units to households earning up to 60% of the area's median income. Long-term plans envision a transformation of the site, with 350 mixed-income apartments, affordable for-sale homes, redesigned streetscapes, an expanded Al Chappelle Community Center, and a central park. Residents will be supported with temporary housing and guaranteed relocation within the redeveloped community.

The total cost of Phase 1 is estimated at $32 million. The project’s funding package includes $1.47 million in federal 9% LIHTCs, $1.03 million in state 9% LIHTCs, $3 million from the National Housing Trust Fund, and $1 million in state Affordable Housing Assistance Program tax credits. These resources mark a significant step toward addressing St. Louis’s affordable housing needs.

Above: An aerial rendering of the Clinton-Peabody redevelopment site that will eventually offer 350 mixed-income affordable housing units. Image courtesy of LJC

St. Louis-based architectural firm Trivers is leading the design process, which integrates sustainability, universal design, and trauma-informed principles to meet residents’ diverse needs. Roanoke Construction, David Mason & Associates, and other local firms will contribute expertise to the construction and engineering phases. POAH Communities, the management arm of POAH, will oversee property operations while partnering with local organizations to provide financial education, youth programs, and housing stability resources.

Strategically located near downtown St. Louis, the redeveloped Clinton-Peabody community will offer residents proximity to major employers like Ameren and Purina, as well as access to infrastructure projects such as the Brickline Greenway and future MetroLink expansions. This prime location aligns with broader efforts to revitalize the Gateway South and Old Frenchtown neighborhoods.

Community engagement is vital to the project’s success. Organizations such as the Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce and Prosperity Connection are collaborating to support residents through initiatives to promote economic empowerment and housing stability.

POAH brings decades of experience to the redevelopment, with thousands of affordable housing units across the U.S., including over 1,500 units in Missouri. Their proven expertise in transforming urban housing communities in cities like Boston, Chicago, and Miami positions them as a valuable leader for the Clinton-Peabody project, which aims to preserve affordable housing while fostering a vibrant, sustainable neighborhood.

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Header image: A rendering of the Clinton-Peabody redevelopment showcases the start of Phase I, which will bring 89 newly constructed multi-family apartments to the community. Image courtesy of LJC

Top five 2025 residence hall design trends: Sustainability, Flexibility, Community, Technology and Wellbeing

Student housing design has evolved significantly over the years to meet the changing needs and preferences of each generation of students. As Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) comes to the forefront, the design trends for 2025 will prioritize flexible spaces, health and wellness, sustainability, community, and digital technology, according to experts in higher education design at KWK Architects, Principals Paul Wuennenberg, AIA, LEED AP and Javier Esteban, AIA, LEED AP.

Gen Z is known for being the most digitally connected generation, having grown up immersed in technology. They are also highly diverse and well-informed, with the ability to access information quickly and efficiently to guide their decisions. Despite their digital engagement, this generation still values face-to-face communication and social interactions, which influences the types of spaces and amenities that should be incorporated into residence halls.

Top Five Residence Hall Design Trends for 2025

1. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Design

• Energy-Efficient Buildings: Sustainable materials, solar energy systems, and energy-efficient appliances will be central to the design. These efforts aim to minimize the environmental footprint of student housing while keeping operational costs low.

• Green Spaces and Urban Gardens: Features like rooftop gardens, communal courtyards, and vegetable gardens are gaining popularity. These outdoor spaces encourage community engagement and offer students tranquil environments for studying and relaxation.

• Water Conservation: The integration of low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and smart water management technologies will help reduce water usage.

2. Flexible and Multi-Use Spaces

• Modular Room Designs: Flexible room layouts will allow for adaptability throughout the semester. Rooms will be designed to serve multiple purposes, such as studying, socializing, or hosting events, based on the students' evolving needs.

• Shared Workspaces: Collaborative spaces will be prioritized, with co-working areas, study lounges, and meeting rooms designed to facilitate group study and teamwork. These spaces will be equipped with advanced technology to support diverse learning styles.

• Multi-Use Social Spaces: Common areas and social lounges will be designed to serve a variety of functions, including hosting events, group study sessions, movie nights, and informal meetups, fostering a balanced blend of academic and social engagement.

Above: Students gather in a mixed-use space at the University of Minnesota’s Pioneer Hall. Image courtesy of KWK Architects

3. Smart Technology Integration

• Smart Home Features: The use of voice-activated lighting, temperature controls, and smart locks will enhance both comfort and security. With technology integrated into everyday life, students will have the ability to personalize their living environments with ease.

• High-Speed Internet & Connectivity: As hybrid learning and remote work become more prevalent, high-speed internet will be essential. Residence halls will focus on providing robust Wi-Fi coverage throughout the building and in communal areas.

• Security Innovations: The use of smart security systems, such as biometric access, smart cameras, and app-controlled features, will ensure enhanced safety for students.

4. Health and Wellbeing Focus

• Wellness-Focused Amenities: In response to growing awareness around mental health, student housing will incorporate wellness amenities like meditation rooms, fitness centers, and on-site counseling services. The inclusion of nature, natural light, and improved air quality will support students' mental and physical well-being.

• Noise Reduction and Privacy: Acoustic design will play a crucial role in creating quiet spaces for rest and study, with noise-cancelling materials and private study areas becoming more prevalent.

• Healthy Building Materials: The use of non-toxic paints, flooring, and ventilation systems will ensure healthier indoor air quality, contributing to a more supportive living environment for students.

• Bedroom/Restroom Configurations: There will be a greater emphasis on private bedroom units and bathrooms to accommodate student preferences for privacy. The trend toward gender-neutral bathrooms will continue, with private bathroom clusters that can be used by anyone, ensuring full privacy.

Above: A lounge area with snacks and refreshments inside North Hall at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis. Image courtesy of KWK Architects

5. Community and Social Interaction

• Community-Centric Design: The focus will be on creating spaces that foster social interaction and a sense of belonging, such as larger community kitchens, collaborative lounges, and communal dining areas, which will encourage diverse student engagement.

• Student-Led Events and Activities: The design will facilitate events like social mixers, networking opportunities, fitness classes, and academic workshops, with dedicated spaces for student-led clubs and organizations.

• Cultural Integration: Multi-purpose areas will cater to cultural diversity, allowing international students to connect, share meals, and celebrate their heritage.

As the next generation of students—Generation Alpha—begins to enter college, institutions will need to prepare their housing facilities for a generation that will likely require advanced technologies such as AI integration, multi-screen capabilities, and faster internet speeds. As current technologies will soon become outdated, it will be vital for student housing to adapt to these evolving needs.

With AI set to revolutionize both the workplace and the academic world, the length of time students spend in college may increase. Colleges and universities will need to adjust to these shifts and consider the competition posed by off-campus housing options.

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Header image: A student residence hall common area at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis. Image courtesy of KWK Architects

St. Louis County Library unveils flagship Clark Family Branch in "Your Library Renewed" initiative

The largest branch in the St. Louis County Library system, the Clark Family Branch Library, has opened its doors in Ladue, Mo., marking a significant milestone in the district's "Your Library Renewed" initiative. The two-story, 78,000 SF facility, designed by Lamar Johnson Collaborative (LJC), replaces a previous building that served the community for over 60 years.

Located on an 8-acre site at 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., the branch is a modern hub for learning, collaboration, and community engagement. Its design blends stone, glass, wood, and steel, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Natural light, high ceilings, and open, flexible spaces emphasize its connection to both its natural surroundings and the community's needs.

The Clark Family Branch Library serves as the district's flagship facility, offering a wide range of amenities. Highlights include age-specific areas for children and teens, a multipurpose event space, and a history and genealogy center. The Stephany and Richard Kniep Children's Space features interactive exhibits like a magnetic gear wall and touch-screen games, while the Unity Foundation Teen Space includes a creative lab with a 3D printer, recording studios, and collaborative workstations.

Above: Some colorful reading nooks inside the new Clark Branch Family Library . Image credit: Kim Rodgers

For larger gatherings, the branch's 800-seat Post Event Space & Plaza provides flexibility for author events, community meetings, and other programming. The Emerson History & Genealogy Center, one of the largest in the nation, supports family research and digital preservation projects, while the small business center offers educational resources for entrepreneurs.

Outdoor spaces complement the interior design, with a walking path, a reading garden, and a second-level balcony offering opportunities for programming and relaxation. Thoughtful site planning prioritizes accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

Above: Inside the grand hallway of the Clark Family Branch Library, which offers many spaces, including age-specific areas for children and teens, a multipurpose event space, a creative lab, and a history and genealogy center. Image credit: Kim Rodgers

The project was supported by a $6 million donation from the Bob Clark Family, founder and executive chairman of Clayco, a design-build firm. LJC, a subsidiary of Clayco, integrated architecture, interior, and landscape design to create a cohesive, sustainable, and community-focused facility.

The new branch consolidates library functions, with administrative operations moving to a separate building in Frontenac, which LJC also designed. This operational shift optimizes the library system's resources and enhances service delivery.

The completion of the Clark Family Branch Library, part of a decade-long effort to modernize all branches, exemplifies the evolution of libraries into vibrant civic hubs. By balancing cost-efficiency with aspirational design, the project delivers a community asset that embodies the library's mission to inspire and support lifelong learning.

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Header image: The Clark Family Branch Library recently opened as the largest branch in the St. Louis County Library system at 78,000 SF. Image credit: Kim Rodgers

Downtown Chesterfield takes a step toward progress with redevelopment plans in motion

The Downtown Chesterfield redevelopment project is advancing with the approval of its site development concept plan, even as the design of its centerpiece grand staircase undergoes further refinement. Chesterfield's City Council's decision on Dec. 2 allows the ambitious multi-phase development to move forward while addressing conditions for future municipal zoning approvals.

The mixed-use project, spearheaded by TSG Downtown Chesterfield Redevelopment LLC, aims to transform the south side of I-64, east of Chesterfield Pkwy., into a vibrant urban district. Plans include a high-rise office tower, a hotel, retail spaces, residential buildings, and a 3.3-acre central park. Once complete, the district will host a bustling community with hundreds of shops and restaurants, corporate headquarters, office spaces, and thousands of residents.

Key features of the site include a five-level above-ground parking garage relocated northwest of the central park. With entrances on Green Blvd. and Downtown Chesterfield Blvd., the garage is strategically positioned to serve park visitors and amphitheater patrons. A proposed grand staircase will enhance accessibility, providing a direct pedestrian link between the parking garage and the central park. Designed for both functionality and aesthetics, the staircase will feature a 20-foot width and integrated lighting for safety and visibility.

Street infrastructure plans emphasize walkability and connectivity. Sidewalks along primary streets will be wide enough to accommodate patio seating or open-space features, allowing developers flexibility. Landscaped islands, tree-lined streets with decorative grates, and thoughtfully placed furnishings such as benches, planters, and bike racks will enhance the pedestrian experience. Cohesive street lighting and decorative fountains will further unify the district's visual identity.

Two planned roundabouts—one at Clarkson Rd. on the eastern edge of the site and another along Chesterfield Pkwy. on the west—will improve traffic flow within the development. Four major intersections within the district will be elevated and adorned with decorative pavers arranged in herringbone or basketweave patterns, creating visual interest and a sense of place. Nearby sidewalks will feature complementary accent treatments, and pedestrian paths are also being considered to improve accessibility.

The City Council's approval came with the condition that a redesign of the grand staircase must be submitted and approved before the first municipal zoning approval (MZA) is granted. An MZA is a prerequisite for obtaining building permits from St. Louis County. This condition was initially recommended during the Planning and Public Works Committee of the Whole meeting on Nov. 21.

Downtown Chesterfield's phased development aims to create a dynamic environment where urban living, commerce, and recreation converge.

As plans progress, the project's careful attention to design and functionality is poised to redefine Chesterfield's landscape, offering a vibrant destination for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

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Header image: Crews continue with the demolition of the Chesterfield Mall, making way for the mixed-use Downtown Chesterfield Development. Image courtesy of The Staenberg Group

Brinkmann completes Promise Christian Academy, Leonardo DRS

Brinkmann Constructors recently completed construction on a new school for Promise Christian Academy in Town and Country, Mo.

The 16,000 SF, special needs school includes eight classrooms, an occupational therapy room, speech therapy room, gym, teacher workspace and offices and a commercial kitchen. The space can accommodate up to 64 students.

Brinkmann worked closely with Promise to help design and manage the project to stay within the fundraising budget. Through constant communication and collaboration, the design-build team delivered a quality, alluring building, on schedule and within budget.

“The Brinkmann team used creative thinking to get this project under budget so the build could move forward. One of the biggest tactics implemented was the use of tilt-up construction. This eliminated exterior steel, metal stud framing and sheathing and a high dollar exterior façade, saving the client time and money. Working with ACI (Boland Architects), the new design provided a low-maintenance final product while keeping the desired curb appeal and exterior finishes,” said Wes French, Brinkmann project manager.

"Brinkmann Constructors not only employs the best of the best, but they also employ personnel who took the time to understand the special needs community and embrace our mission. This created top-notch teamwork that made the project flow seamlessly. Brinkmann Constructors has left a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of the Promise community. We will forever embrace them as a part of our family and a part of our story," said Meredith Heintz, head of school.

Promise Christian Academy is a private, faith-based school that takes a therapeutic approach to special education with specific programs designed to meet all of its students’ individual needs.

Brinkmann Constructors also recently wrapped up construction on a new 170,000 SF engineering development and light manufacturing facility in Bridgeton, Mo. for Leonardo DRS, a U.S.-based defense contractor.

This Leonardo DRS facility will be home to the business unit headquarters; housing leadership, management and a centralized back office functionality. The space will give the organization the flexibility to expand with minimal impact to the current workforce.

Brinkmann served as the GC and also provided interior build-out for the warehouse, including a best-in-class engineering, research and development laboratory and office space. Construction finished two weeks ahead of schedule and included a phased schedule to allow for DRS to begin installing furniture before the building was completed. The architect on the project was TR,i Architects.

CDC selects McCarthy as CM for biosafety lab

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. has been chosen as the construction manager (CM) by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for a new High Containment Continuity Laboratory (HCCL) at the Roybal Campus in Atlanta, Ga.

The new facility, which is part of the CDC’s 2025 Masterplan, currently is in the pre-construction/design phase with construction planned to begin in early 2021. Post completion, the HCCL will be one of three facilities in the world designed and certified to facilitate diagnostic research on specific, select viruses.

The new 160,000 SF, multi-story research building will increase the CDC's research capacity to sustain its diagnostic mission and support its public health mission by helping communities prepare for, detect and respond to consequences of all public health hazards. The HCCL building will be a Biosafety Level-4 (BSL-4) facility, a designation reserved for the highest level of biological safety and it will accommodate approximately 80 laboratory researchers.

“For the past two decades, McCarthy has been the premier high containment laboratory builder in the nation and we are thrilled to have been chosen to build this new addition to the expanding CDC Roybal campus,” said Bobby Campbell, executive vice president of McCarthy in Atlanta.

As a BSL-4 laboratory, the new facility will feature high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtered supply and exhaust air, air pressure resistant doors, pressure cascade zoning, effluent collection and treatment, and pressure decay tested coatings and penetrations, as well as high purity breathing air and chemical decontamination showers for research staff. In addition, there will be connections to the existing Roybal campus utility systems with below grade utility tunnels and a two-level bridge connection.

“McCarthy has constructed the majority of the BSL-4 laboratory space in the United States, including the completion of the BSL-4 Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory on this campus 15 years ago. We are looking forward to bringing our experience full circle back to the CDC to build an efficient, functional, and technologically advanced research laboratory,” Campbell said.

As a leader for the past two decades in constructing facilities that conduct research related to infectious diseases, biological agents, and other sensitive scientific and medical research facilities, McCarthy Building Companies has built more than 25 percent of the BSL-4 facilities in the United States, including more than 50 percent of the gross square feet.

In addition to the CDC, McCarthy’s biosafety projects have included Boston University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture locations in Ames, Iowa and Manhattan, Kan.

The CDC has selected Flad Architects, Page Southerland Page and WSP to plan, program and design the HCCL. Part of the project management team is from McCarthy’s St. Louis headquarters.

With extensive knowledge and experience in biosafety projects, both Flad and McCarthy are also currently working together on the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kans., the only BSL-4 large animal facility in the nation.